Can a lawyer say no?

Asked by: Prof. Geovanni Macejkovic  |  Last update: October 21, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (63 votes)

If you are wondering if a lawyer can refuse your case, the answer is yes, a lawyer can say “no” to taking on your dispute. Lawyers have the right to choose which cases they want to take on, and which cases they don't. If a lawyer declines their services, there are typically clear reasons for them to do so.

Can you decline a client as a lawyer?

To reduce the risk of claims when declining to represent a client, send the prospective client a non-engagement letter clearly stating that the law firm will not represent the client in that matter.

Can a lawyer reject you?

Lawyers have the right to choose whom they represent, subject to ethical and practical considerations. Attorneys may refuse clients to avoid conflicts of interest, lack of competence, or if representation is ethically or legally problematic.

Do lawyers take cases they know they can't win?

They don't take cases they don't feel they can win. This billing method used by most personal injury lawyers is called a contingency fee. As explained by the American Bar Association, this method involves the lawyer and the client entering into a contingent fee agreement at the start of the case.

Can an attorney decline a case?

Reasons Why a Family Law Attorney Might Decline a Case

Attorneys may choose not to accept cases for various reasons, such as: Conflicts of interest. Lack of expertise in specific areas. Ethical considerations.

7 Signs You Hired A Bad Lawyer (and What You Can Do About It)

17 related questions found

Can my lawyer drop me without telling me?

If a lawyer and client cannot work together effectively, it can be difficult to achieve a positive outcome. In this case, the lawyer must notify the client of their intention to withdraw and provide reasonable notice to allow the client to find a new lawyer.

Which lawyer wins most cases?

Settings. Gerry Spence is widely considered one of the most successful trial and criminal attorneys in America. He has never once lost a criminal case — either as a prosecutor or a defense attorney — and he hasn't lost a civil case since 1969.

Can you really tell your lawyer everything?

In conclusion, if you're facing criminal charges, it is important to be honest and open with your attorney about the details of your case. Attorney-client privilege ensures that the information you provide will be kept confidential, and your attorney will work to provide you with the best possible representation.

How do you know if your lawyer is selling you out?

How Can You Tell If Your Lawyer Is Selling You Out?
  • They Regularly Miss Deadlines and Appointments. ...
  • They Show a Lack of Interest in Your Case. ...
  • They Are Pushing You Too Quickly or Forcefully to Settle. ...
  • They Fail to Return or Answer Your Calls. ...
  • They're not Transparent in Billing and Payment Practices.

Can your lawyer go against you?

The law is clear that a lawyer cannot turn against their client, and any violation of this guideline can invite a stringent investigation from legal authorities. Accusations of treachery are taken seriously and may warrant criminal prosecution to ensure justice is served fairly.

What not to tell a lawyer?

Eight Things You Shouldn't Say to Your Lawyer
  • Do Not Say Anything to Your Attorney That Is Not True. ...
  • Do Not Exaggerate Your Injuries When Talking to Your Lawyer. ...
  • Do Not Tell Your Lawyer to Act On Your Behalf and Take Other Action Without Their Awareness.

Can a lawyer drop a client for being guilty?

Lawyers can refuse to defend someone for a variety of reasons, they are not likely to do so based on whether they are guilty or not guilty.

What if your lawyer doesn t believe you?

Get a Second Opinion. See a second attorney if you've got serious doubts about how your case is handled. They're often very valuable in helping you decide whether to stay with your current lawyer or change to someone better suited to the task. Also, second opinions are relatively inexpensive.

How do you politely decline a lawyer?

Answer: To politely inform a lawyer that their services are no longer required, you can send them a clear and concise email or letter expressing your gratitude for their assistance thus far, but stating that you have decided to go in a different direction or have resolved the matter on your own.

Can a lawyer drop a client for being annoying?

The Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of California (“Rules of Conduct”) specify three circumstances under which an attorney must terminate a client relationship: (1) where the attorney knows or reasonably should know that a client is bringing an action, conducting a defense, asserting a position in ...

What do lawyers do when they know their client is guilty?

Criminal defense attorneys are ethically required to zealously represent their clients, no matter what their personal opinion of the case may be. This means that criminal defense attorneys are required to do their best to advocate for their clients, even if the attorney believes the client is guilty.

How do you know you have a bad lawyer?

Any behavior that compromises professionalism, such as rudeness, tardiness, or lack of respect for client confidentiality, should raise concerns about the lawyer's competence. Additionally, ethical misconduct or disciplinary actions by regulatory authorities may indicate a lack of integrity and competence.

Why would a lawyer drop you as a client?

Withdrawal is mandatory if (1) the lawyer knows or reasonably should know that the action is being taken without probable cause and for the purpose of harassing or maliciously injuring any person; (2) the lawyer knows or reasonably should know that continued employment will result in a violation of the Rules of ...

How do you tell a lawyer off?

Here are some tips to keep in mind:
  1. Always terminate the relationship in writing. Even if you fire your attorney in a verbal exchange, you should follow up by sending a written termination letter. ...
  2. Get to the point. ...
  3. Be firm. ...
  4. Be polite. ...
  5. Ask for a copy of your case file.

Does my lawyer have to listen to me?

Attorney is the agent of his client. She has to act as per the client's instructions, provided that such instructions are not detrimental to the client interest.

Do lawyers record conversations?

Lawyers may record calls when clients instruct them to, often to create a clear record. Lawyers may record calls discussing confidential information to ensure accuracy and protection. Recording calls can help lawyers fully understand complex legal issues discussed.

Does a lawyer read a lot?

We lawyers spend much of our days reading. We read for multiple purposes: discovering facts, finding legal authority, developing advice, learning about a client, editing a document, preparing for a meeting, studying a new law.

What are the hardest cases to win?

A: Crimes against minors, white collar crimes, and first-degree murder are sometimes the hardest cases to defend.

Which lawyers get sued the most?

Areas of Practice With the Highest Frequency
  1. Personal Injury and Property Damage – Plaintiff. ...
  2. Collections and Bankruptcy. ...
  3. Real Estate. ...
  4. Estate, Trust and Probate. ...
  5. Family Law. ...
  6. Business Transaction / Commercial Law.

What's the most a lawyer can take from settlement?

Whatever the amount is, your law firm will charge you on a contingency fee basis. This means they will take a set percentage of your recovery, typically one third or 33.3%. There are rare instances where a free case is agreed to by the representing lawyers.